Cutting The Cake: Wedding Must-Have Or Outdated Tradition?

Cutting the cake is an important part of a wedding celebration. It is a time-honoured tradition that dates back to ancient Rome, where a simple wheat or barley loaf was broken over the bride's head to bring good fortune to the couple and their guests. Today, it symbolises the newlyweds' first act as a married couple, setting the tone for their future together. It is also a practical element, as it is how the dessert is served to the guests. The couple cuts the first slice together, before feeding each other a bite, symbolising their commitment to care for each other.

The history of cutting wedding cakes

The wedding cake has been a part of the ceremony since ancient Roman times. Back then, the groom would break bread over the bride's head, to symbolise her submission, the end of her purity, and to bring good luck and fertility. The bride and groom would then eat the crumbs together as a sign of unity.

The Romans brought this tradition with them when they conquered Britain in 43 CE. The British took it a step further, throwing the bread at the bride to symbolise her fertility. In the Middle Ages, the English replaced the plain wheat cake with stacks of spiced buns, scones, and cookies, which were piled as high as possible. The newlyweds would try to kiss over the stack of treats, and if they succeeded without knocking it over, it was believed they would be blessed with many children.

In the 17th century, wedding cakes started to replace bridal pies, with bakers creating two pastry crusts filled with currants and sprinkled with sugar. During this time, sugar started to become more affordable, and white icing began to be used as a symbol of the bride's purity and family wealth.

In the 18th century, tiered cakes became popular, with the apprentice of a London baker creating an elaborate tiered cake to impress his boss's daughter. Today, the cake-cutting ceremony is a popular tradition, with 77% of couples including it in their wedding reception.

Wedding cake tiers and serving

Wedding cakes have been part of wedding celebrations for a long time, though they have not always been the focal point of the reception. Cutting the cake is a significant moment, symbolising the start of the couple's life together.

Wedding Cake Tiers

Traditionally, wedding cakes have three tiers, each with its own significance. The bottom tier is eaten during the ceremony, the middle tier is distributed to guests after the event, and the top tier is saved. The top tier was originally saved for the christening of the couple's first child, but now couples tend to save it for their first wedding anniversary.

However, it is becoming more common for couples to opt for a single-tier cake, or even a tower of cupcakes, instead of a three-tier cake. This could be due to budget constraints, personal preference, or the aesthetic of the reception.

Wedding Cake Servings

The number of tiers you choose will depend on the number of guests you are inviting. A 1-tier cake (6" or 8" diameter) is ideal for an intimate wedding, providing around 10-12 servings. A 2-tier cake (6" + 8" or 8" + 10" diameter) is suitable for small to medium-sized weddings, offering approximately 30-40 servings. A 3-tier cake (6" + 8" + 10" or 8" + 10" + 12" diameter) is perfect for medium to large weddings, providing about 50-100 servings.

If you are planning a grand celebration with over 100 guests, you may want to consider a 4+ tier cake, which can serve 100-150 guests. A 5-tier cake will provide 150-200 servings, and a 6+ tier cake will provide over 200 servings and create a stunning centrepiece for the reception.

Alternative Serving Styles

If you are looking for something a little different, there are several alternative serving styles to add a creative twist to your wedding dessert. Cake shooters, cake pops, and cake jars offer miniature, portable portions that are perfect for guests who prefer bite-sized treats or a mess-free indulgence.

Timing of the Cake Cutting

The timing of the cake cutting is up to the couple's preference. Traditionally, it is the last formal moment of the day, after dinner and any speeches. However, some couples choose to cut the cake before dinner so that it can be served as dessert, or to allow more time for photographs and socialising before the dancing begins.

The Cake Cutting Ceremony

During the cake cutting ceremony, the groom places his right hand over the bride's hand, and together they cut a small piece from the bottom tier. They then feed this first slice to each other, and may also serve a piece to their in-laws. The rest of the cake is then cut into slices and distributed among the guests.

The cake cutting ceremony is a significant moment in the wedding, symbolising the couple's unity and the start of their life together.

Wedding cake cutting etiquette

Wedding Cake-Cutting Etiquette

The cutting of the wedding cake is a time-honored tradition that dates back to ancient Rome. While the specifics of the tradition have evolved over time, cutting the cake remains a symbolic ritual that represents the newlyweds' first act as a married couple. Here are some etiquette tips to consider for your wedding cake-cutting ceremony:

Timing is Everything

The timing of the cake-cutting ceremony is important. Traditionally, the cake is cut towards the end of the reception, after dinner, and just before the last dancing set begins. This timing signals to older guests that they are welcome to leave, as the reception is coming to a close. However, modern couples may choose to cut the cake earlier, such as before dinner, to use the cake as dessert for their guests or to capture unique photo opportunities. Ultimately, the timing should be based on the couple's preference and the flow of the wedding day.

The Cake-Cutting Process

When it's time to cut the cake, the couple typically stands in front of the cake table, with the bride on the left. The couple then makes the first cut together, usually at the front of the bottom tier, slicing a small ceremonial piece. The groom usually places his right hand over the bride's hand on the knife during this process. This first slice is often the only piece they cut themselves. After the initial cut, the catering staff or wedding party members take over, slicing the cake into servings for the guests.

Feeding Each Other

Following the first cut, the couple may feed each other the first bites of cake. This gesture symbolizes their commitment to nourishing and caring for each other. It is considered good etiquette to avoid "smashing" cake into each other's faces, as this can be seen as immature or disrespectful. Instead, the couple may opt to feed each other gently by hand or with a fork.

The Cake Knife

The wedding cake knife is often a special keepsake item for the couple. It is recommended to use a sharp, serrated knife to make clean and precise cuts during the ceremony. Using a gentle sawing motion is preferable to pressing down too hard to avoid crushing the cake.

Serving the Guests

After the couple has cut the first slice, the catering team or designated helpers should handle the rest of the cake-cutting and serving process. It is important to ensure there is enough cake for all the guests, with one to two slices per guest being a general guideline. The cake can be served as the main dessert or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Timing of the cake cutting

The timing of the cake-cutting ceremony at a wedding is a matter of personal preference. However, there are some standard times and traditions to consider.

Traditional Timing

The traditional time to cut the cake is towards the end of the reception, after dinner and speeches, and just before the dancing begins. This is usually the last formal moment of the day and can signal to guests that the party is coming to a close.

Modern Timing

In modern times, it is becoming more common to cut the cake earlier in the evening, before dinner. This has several benefits. Firstly, it can serve as dessert for the wedding guests, saving on costs. Secondly, it allows guests to move straight to the dance floor after dinner. Cutting the cake earlier also provides an opportunity for photographs with guests, as well as capturing the moment in front of a beautifully set-up venue.

Practical Considerations

When deciding on the timing, it is important to consider the practical aspects of serving the cake. If cutting the cake before dinner, the catering team will need to cut and distribute it while guests are eating. This ensures that cake is served promptly after the ceremony. Waiting until after dinner allows guests time to mix and mingle before the dancing starts.

Cultural and Religious Considerations

Cultural and religious traditions may also influence the timing of the cake-cutting ceremony. It is worth noting that some cultures and religions have different practices and rituals associated with the cutting of the cake.

Ultimately, the decision on when to cut the wedding cake is a personal choice and should be planned to fit into the flow of the day.

The role of the photographer during the cake cutting

The cutting of the wedding cake is a significant moment in the ceremony and an important photo opportunity for the newlyweds' album. It is the first activity done in unison as a married couple, marking the start of their life together.

The photographer's role during the cake-cutting is to capture this special moment. They should aim to get a variety of shots, including close-ups of the couple's hands on the knife, their facial expressions, and the cake itself. The photographer should also be mindful of the composition and framing of the photos, ensuring that the couple and the cake are the main focus.

To get the best shots, the photographer should communicate with the couple beforehand to understand their preferences and the timeline of events. They should also coordinate with the DJ or emcee to ensure they are aware of the timing and can make any necessary announcements. For example, the DJ may ask guests to give the couple space and respect the photographer's need to capture the moment without interference.

Additionally, the photographer can suggest to the couple that they cut the cake in the centre of the dance floor after guests have been served their entrees. This allows the photographer to get clear shots without guests crowding around the cake. Alternatively, the couple may prefer an unannounced cake-cutting, which can help avoid chaos and create a more intimate moment.

Overall, the photographer's role is to ensure that the cake-cutting moment is beautifully and professionally captured, providing the couple with lasting memories of this important tradition.

Frequently asked questions